Open AccessCivilian nuclear incidents: An overview of historical, medical, and scientific aspects
Author(s) -
Yuri Rojavin,
Mark J. Seamon,
Ravi Tripathi,
Thomas J. Papadimos,
Sagar Galwankar,
Nicholas Kman,
James Cipolla,
Michael D. Grossman,
Raffaele Marchigiani,
Stanislaw P Stawicki
Publication year - 2011
Publication title -
journal of emergencies, trauma and shock
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.313
H-Index - 29
eISSN - 0974-519X
pISSN - 0974-2700
DOI - 10.4103/0974-2700.82219
Subject(s) - triage , radiation exposure , risk analysis (engineering) , medical emergency , business , medicine , forensic engineering , engineering , nuclear medicine
Given the increasing number of operational nuclear reactors worldwide, combined with the continued use of radioactive materials in both healthcare and industry, the unlikely occurrence of a civilian nuclear incident poses a small but real danger. This article provides an overview of the most important historical, medical, and scientific aspects associated with the most notable nuclear incidents to date. We have discussed fundamental principles of radiation monitoring, triage considerations, and the short- and long-term management of radiation exposure victims. The provision and maintenance of adequate radiation safety among first responders and emergency personnel are emphasized. Finally, an outline is included of decontamination, therapeutic, and prophylactic considerations pertaining to exposure to various radioactive materials.